Why we’re bringing experts into communities to help power Britain’s SMEs

The UK’s small and medium sized businesses are the heartbeat of the economy. They drive innovation, create jobs, and power local communities. But when it comes to accessing the right technology and support, they’re often overlooked. Many don’t have the time to sit in call centre queues, the resources to hire in-house experts, or the clarity on what tech could help solve the challenges they’re facing.

We believe that technology should be an enabler, not a barrier. Whether it’s staying connected with customers, enabling flexible working, or protecting against cyber threats, digital tools are central to how businesses grow and compete. But knowing where to start, or who to speak to, isn’t always easy.

At BT Business we know that for many business owners, face-to-face support still matters. And this isn’t just for solving problems – it’s also about building confidence. Many small businesses are keen to adopt and benefit from new technologies utilising AI and the cloud, but are unsure how best to do so. They are keen to speak to someone who understands their challenges and can quickly help them find the right solutions.

That’s why we’re investing to give customers brand new access to face-to-face support from Business experts in our high street stores across the UK. These are people who understand the realities of running a business and can offer clear, practical advice. Every store will offer access to expert guidance, whether you book online, pop in for a chat, or arrange a visit to your own workplace.

This is part of our continued investment in the UK high street and local communities, and our aim to make technology more accessible to those who could benefit the most. Our business experts are trained to help SMEs navigate everything from connectivity and cloud services to smart devices and automation tools. And crucially, they’re ready to support businesses facing one of today’s biggest threats - cybersecurity.

Although larger companies make the headlines, SMEs are a huge target for cybercriminals, with 42% experiencing an attack last year¹. We’re providing a range of new security solutions tailored for small businesses, and with our in-store experts they can get face-to-face support to help them navigate cyber threats and grow securely.

Ultimately, connectivity isn’t just about broadband or mobile – it’s about unlocking potential, enabling growth, and empowering the businesses that form the backbone of Britain’s economy. That’s the kind of support we want to deliver every day and in every community, and with small and medium businesses this is vital – as when they succeed, the whole country benefits.

_{¹ Small businesses to receive cyber security boost with new toolkit from experts - NCSC.GOV.UK}